Viral Hepatitis B
What is Viral Hepatitis B?
Viral hepatitis B is an infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is a severe form of liver disease which can result in liver failure or death. HBV is a DNA virus that is spread through contact with the blood and other bodily fluids of an infected person. It is one of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases. Infection with HBV can cause a wide range of symptoms, including liver inflammation, jaundice, fever, and abdominal pain.
Symptoms of Viral Hepatitis B
Symptoms of viral hepatitis B can vary in severity, and many people infected do not experience any symptoms at all. Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Joint and muscle pain
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
- Dark urine
- Clay-colored stool
Diagnosis of Viral Hepatitis B
Viral hepatitis B can be diagnosed through blood tests which detect antibodies to the hepatitis B virus in the blood. If the antibodies are present, then the virus is present as well. The test results can help guide treatment and determine the severity of the infection.
Treatment of Viral Hepatitis B
Treatment for viral hepatitis B may include medications to reduce the amount of virus in the body, as well as lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. In some cases, a liver transplant is necessary for a person suffering from severe liver damage from HBV.
Prevention of Viral Hepatitis B
The best way to prevent viral hepatitis B is to be vaccinated against the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all children and adolescents and for certain adults. Another way to prevent HBV is to practice safe sex and not share needles or other drug injection equipment, as this may increase the risk of exposure to the virus.